This is a great piece for the day to night switch because of how easy it is to ‘dress it up or down’. This print is wild enough for the night but wouldn’t look out of place at the office, especially on a Friday. Pair skirt with a blazer, a silk top or basic T-shirt for a day look. Swap the blazer for some layered dainty necklace and fab heels for the night.

A great jacket is almost a must-have for ‘day to night’ dressing because of the numerous iterations one can achieve with them. You can choose from Longline jackets to blazers to bomber jackets and they would always make that switch effortless.

https://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/itfactor-these-pieces-will-take-you-from-9-to5-to-happy-hour.png393742Itfactor_ Adminhttps://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/It-Factor-Logo_200.pngItfactor_ Admin2019-04-05 20:16:432019-04-05 20:34:55These Pieces Will Take You From 9-to-5 To Happy Hour

A lot of us have a work wardrobe overflowing with outfits, but how many times do you open your wardrobe and feel like you have absolutely nothing to wear for work? I know right?

The number one reason for this is, most times, we all literally never start with or even consider the basic or essential foundational piece in building our wardrobe. Essentials or basics, are crucial to help you mix and match with other items you already own in your wardrobe, they are the building blocks in creating effortless style.

If you are looking at giving your current selection of workwear an upgrade or you want a total overhaul that would ensure you pick out your work clothes without sweating it, read on, for 4 simple ways to help create a more robust work wardrobe.

Never underestimate the power of a chic white blouse and a polished black pant

I usually say these are a wardrobe must-have, The perfect white blouse and a nicely tailored black pants. They literally go with anything. They are insanely chic paired together or with any other items. With these two in your wardrobe arsenal, you can take on any day with style and grace.

While elaborate blouses with dizzying colours and prints are very eye-catching, most times, they are usually lacking in versatility. Consider investing in solid coloured tops in basic colours that can pair easily. I find that owning a simple black, red, green, blue and white vests or tanks, always make for easy styling on days when I can’t figure out what to wear. These pieces are great for both formal and casual wears.

Personally, I believe this is one area you cannot afford to scrimp. Every woman needs at least two very good quality pair of shoes. A flat to commute in and run around the office on less formal days, and heels for a more dressed up look. Whatever you choose, ensure the quality is absolutely spot-on.

Would you be adding any of these to your wardrobe? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.

While it can be tempting to jump on every buzz-worthy trend, its no use buying into trends if they don’t suit you, or are not in tandem with your aesthetics. As much as trends are fun, adopt an approach where you only buy into the ones that flatter your figure and that you would enjoy wearing. When buying a trendy piece, ask two questions; one, does this suit me? And two, based on my lifestyle, how often would I actually wear this? That should help in nudging you in the right direction. Whatever you do, try not to go overboard with trendy pieces. It’s always more practical to have more of classic pieces in your wardrobe. A rule of thumb is to have 30percent of your wardrobe made up of trendy pieces, and 70 per cent, classic evergreen pieces. Check here for how to pick out wardrobe classics.

Standout or statement pieces are sometimes difficult to pass by. But oftentimes, they are limited in versatility, because of how eye-catching they are. If you can only wear a statement piece one or two ways, then it’s probably not worth investing in. There is also a possible limitation on how often you would want to wear it on rotation, simply because, ‘it stands out’. Versatile pieces are more functional, would give more value because you can come up with more outfit ideas and wear them more frequently. A classic example of a versatile piece is a little black dress.

3. Consider an investment piece every now and then

Buying affordable trendy pieces may be great, as they help with staying on trend. But they may actually be costing as much as higher priced pieces because of their short lifespan. Adding investment pieces to your wardrobe can help create a nice balance of trendy and classy. Though costing more, you find that investment pieces tend to last longer and help you build a classy wardrobe you would be proud of. You can adopt an approach where you buy an investment piece, after a certain number of more affordable pieces. That is a ratio of say, one investment piece for every five or ten affordable pieces. You will find that you wear the investment pieces for longer, bringing the price per wear down and giving you more value for your money in the long run.

4. Consider developing a go-to style uniform and add a third piece to it.

Carolina Herrera in her signature white blouse

A style uniform is your personal style identity. It’s that distinct look that defines you, and you would mostly default to. These are outfits or items of fashion that speak to your most fashionable self when worn. For instance, this could be shirtdresses and pumps, crisp white blouses and bottoms, bold gaudy earrings and plain dresses, cropped pants and ballet, or as simple as signature accessories. Having a go-to style removes the guesswork from dressing up, as you can easily spin off different outfit iterations from it. You can add a third piece to your style uniform if it doesn’t already include one. Your third piece can be a scarf, a jacket, a hat or signature statement accessory. A third piece would take your style from basic to outstanding. The third piece just adds that ‘extra’ to any outfit.

The party season is inching ever so closely and we are all truly excited. With the volume of events and parties usually lined up for this time of the year, it makes perfect sense to start thinking about what to wear to these occasions. The aesthetic for this time of the year calls for show-stopping outfits and rightfully so, it’s the most festive time of the year and most people just want to end the year on a high note after the year’s work.

But getting those show-stopping outfits usually comes with a hefty price tag if you choose to wait for when you need them, which is why it makes perfect sense to take advantage of the biggest sales towards the end of the year.

The year-end sale season for most shops starts in late November to December of every year. This period usually offers shoppers the biggest price cuts across all fashion categories. Fortunately, with the cyclical nature of fashion, we tend to see some classic trends every year. With this in mind, you can shop smartly by snatching up classic pieces at wallet friendly prices and you would be sure to turn out looking stunning and definitely on trend when the season gets in full swing.

Here are trends to look out for when shopping the sale season.

Sequin

Sequin or shimmery pieces are a traditional party season fixture. Year in and out, sparkles get a prime spot at most parties. If wearing an entire sequin/shimmering outfit is not your forte, then thrive to add little touches of sparkles to your outfits. Look out for touches of bling in your accessories and shoes, by doing this, you would ramp up an otherwise plain outfit.

The colour Red

The colour red is a classic for the party season. Fortunately, it’s such a standout colour that would also take you beyond the festive season. To make it party worthy, look out for pieces that ooze elegance.

Velvet

Everyone loves the rich luxurious touch that is associated with velvet, it is traditionally a party season favourite. This a good touch to have for mini bags and shoes for parties.

Fancy shoes

Fancy shoes are a must-have for parties. Shopping these party essential during the sale would ensure you snatch up a good bargain before the price surge of the festive season.

When you have these classics locked down especially in good quality well-made pieces, then you can update your look with trendy accessories.

https://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Here’s-How-To-Save-On-Party-Season-Outfits-9.jpg393742Itfactor_ Adminhttps://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/It-Factor-Logo_200.pngItfactor_ Admin2018-12-13 19:14:182019-02-02 20:33:38Here's How To Save On Party Season Outfits

The party season is here and with the volume of events and parties usually lined up for this time of the year, we are guessing you are already thinking of what to wear to these occasions. This time of the year ushers in the most festive of events and calls for a whole lot of statement dressing. The esthetics are looks that get the ‘wow factor’ and rightfully so, what other time of the year do we get the permission to party this much? We might as well do it looking stunning. Whether your style is an effortlessly cool, simple and subtle or glam diva, there are so many ways to make a bold statement with your outfit while remaining true to your style. This is not the time for the subtle and laidback, the aim here is to create looks that are memorable while keeping it polished and classy. What’s the point of all the hard work if no one will notice, right? If you are ready to perfect your party season slay strategy, Let’s get you started on how to conquer every event you attend this season.

The Red Stunner

Red is a classic for the holiday season. From dresses to jumpsuit and skirt, you would continue to find your red outfit useful, year in, year out. To keep it trendy, look out for pieces with ruffles, fringes and coldshoulders.

Velvet is traditionally a party season favourite, this is understandable as velvet has that rich luxurious look that is so appropriate for this time of the year.

The Fab Jumpsuit

We love jumpsuits for so many reasons, but chief among them is how you don’t have to worry about what to pair them with! Dress up your jumpsuit with a pair of fancy heels and statement accessories and you are done!

While this might not be everyone’s cup of tea, nothing says “party season” like a sequin. The way around wearing head to toe sequin if it’s not your thing is to add little touches of sparkle in your accessories and shoes and that should ramp up your glam quotient.

https://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/All-you-need-TO-slay-this-party-season-itfactor-fashion-online-Nigeria-banner.jpg387750Itfactor_ Adminhttps://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/It-Factor-Logo_200.pngItfactor_ Admin2017-12-07 19:52:232019-02-02 20:32:07All You Need To Slay This Party Season

It’s natural for most people to default to their trusty black shoes every time even if they own a million coloured shoes. Black shoes are undoubtedly easy to wear and match with everything, “why fix it if it isn’t broke, right? Except you are ‘ok’ with remaining boring and bent on sending your favourite black pair of shoe to early retirement, then you might just be in need of a style redemption.

The truth is, it requires more thought to figure out the best shoe colour to pair with coloured outfits, but we have done some of that thinking for you.

Here are some tricks we have found to make this task a lot easier; hopefully they would help you put your coloured shoes to more use.

Some basic rules first,

Your shoes can be any shade of the colours on your outfit.

You can pick out a single colour from your outfit and make that your shoe colour, I like to choose the list prominent colour in this case.

Consider colours like beige, grey, black and white as neutral, they would go with almost any outfit.

The colour red is a popular choice for most people when the aim is to present a bold and daring look. Beyond being bold and daring, red is also quite popular due to its unique ability to look good on everyone. Seriously, can you think of anyone that a red outfit doesn’t look flattering on?

As the party season gradually approaches, a lot of people would fall back to this trusty colour to take them through the season, combining their reds mostly with the usual neutrals of whites, blacks and greys. But what other less-obvious colours can work just as good with red and make your outfit look even better? We have rounded up a few less known colour combos that work perfectly with red.

MUSTARD YELLOW

The combinations of mustard yellow and red works because both are from the same warm colour family and both have brown undertones. Another colour within this colour spectrum that would work is orange. More bonuses for this combination? Psychologically, yellow makes us feel warm, cheerful and fun, combined with sultry bold red, there’s no reason not to try this one.

PINK

This combination is fresh and striking. It’s not just trendy, it would make your red outfit look interesting and edgy. Most shades of pink work nicely with red but I favour soft pinks with more vibrant shades of red. If you find this too overpowering, then add dark neutrals to break up the look.

BLUE

Ever wondered why this combination is popular all around us? Think big brands like Pepsi, Citibank, US/UK flags. The balance of cool blue and warm red is a classic combination that always works. It’s a look that is clean and stands out nicely.

ARMY GREEN

Red and green are traditionally complimentary colours and as such, they work well together. The contrasts between the two colours are a great match and look really fresh.

NEUTRALS – GRAY, SILVER AND CAMEL

These neutrals are a great alternative to black or white, they would pop even better against the colour red. Metallics, like silver, are very vibrant against red. Camel looks classy and sublime, while grey is more toned down and subdued and would make the red the star.

As with every fashion tip, there are no rigid rules and this just serves as a guide. As always, go with whatever you are most comfortable and confident in. When in doubt about colours, try adding neutrals to create a balance with bold colour combinations and play with different tints and shades within each colour family.

We love to think of summer as the time for sunglasses, beaches and sunshine all day long! The reality, however, for those of us in the tropics is cloudy gloomy days and stormy wet weather, thanks to the rainy season. Be that as it may, the seasonality of fashion is something that transcends geographical boundaries and as such you always find elements of summer trends that can be adopted regardless of your location. So even if we cannot do sunny beachy looks until the return of the hot dry season, we have rounded up 4 summer trends you can adopt straightaway to ensure you stay stylish irrespective of the weather.

Summer Whites

A summer wardrobe without a white outfit is like white rice without stew. The chicness of a white outfit will take you through to the party season when a lot of the dress codes would call for “all white outfits” so it is worth investing in one. Statement Jewelry is a good way to elevate this look.

This summer’s floral is full throttle head to toe full bloom. We are talking psychedelic blooms in bright colours, they are bold and would make people stop and stare. These florals are on everything, even the shoes and denim are blooming, the options to incorporate this trend are endless. We particularly love this summer’s floral maxi, for its easy breezy vibe, you don’t have to worry about what to pair it with, just throw on and go – no fussing. In choosing a maxi dress, opt for one with some waist definition, a high waist definition will create a slimmer silhouette irrespective of how voluminous the dress is. This trends always works well with sleek gold accessories

No look says summer trends like a pair of good ol’ sunglasses. Retro shapes like oversize round styles with tortoiseshell or leopard print frames, aviators and cat eyes are a big hit, these old school favourites are turning out to be the new cool. Take your sunglasses game a notch higher with coloured lenses or mirrored coloured lenses to be summer ’17 compliant. Pinkish shades appear to be a popular choice.

By now you probably know we do not advocate for jumping on every trend out there right?

If you don’t, here’s why we think you should not jump on every fashion trend. Fashion trends are constantly changing, getting on every trend bandwagon can be quite tiring not to mention put a drain in your wallet. Having a closet of mostly good quality classics would guarantee you always have what to wear; here is how you can choose your classics wisely.

While we love to see new fashion trends and usually participate in reporting and predicting them, we are aware that not all trends are flattering on every figure type.

However, we have found the ruffle trend to be quite forgiving and flattering on a majority of shapes and sizes depending on how it is styled.

Here are 3 ways the ruffle trend can work for you

Billowing and Bell ruffled sleeves

These come in different variations, from exaggerated billowing sleeves to oversized bell shape sleeves. This trend is flattering because it draws the attention away from the torso and focuses on the sleeves. If the arms are the problem areas, they are cleverly concealed under large sleeves. Where this comes with a waist tie, it gets even better because it helps to cinch in the waistline and conceals that area with it’s draping.

These are oversized sleeves with ruffled detailing. This trend highlights your shoulders and is great if your lower half is the problem. The ruffle detail draws the focus to the upper part of the body and the lower part is left streamlined and balanced out, as it is deprived of any details that will cause attention. This style is even better if it comes in a single solid colour.

This trend is flattering because it draws the eye to travel along the length of the ruffle and in doing so the focus is shifted away from every other part but that cascading detail. This would usually create a lengthening effect, especially in midi dresses.

Would you be trying ruffles soon?

Let us know in the comments.

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Whether you are born tall or petite, an average woman wouldn’t mind creating the illusion of longer legs, no? There’s no denying that great gams grab attention. Fortunately, we can fix that without going under the knife.

Here’s our take on how you can fake attention-grabbing longer legs!

Go for pointy toe pumps in colours that match your skin tone

Rounded toe pumps can have a shortening effect, instead, opt for a pointy toe pump that matches your skin tone. Neutral colours like nude or brown are a great choice, these colours would create visually longer legs. A lower cut pump where more of your feet are exposed would be even better.

Go For High-waisted

High-waisted anything is good news for longer legs! These pants, shorts or skirts will make your legs appear as if they extend from a higher point, that is, your waist.

Wearing a single colour, preferably dark colours, from your head to your feet creates a solid visual line that makes you appear taller and your legs longer, and if black is your choice, it is insanely chic.

Go For Longer Length

Floor-grazing hems especially when paired with heels would create seriously long legs.